Columbia County will make history on Sunday, August 17 with the region's first-ever Jewish cultural festival at Henry Hudson Riverfront Park. This groundbreaking inaugural event is open to visitors and residents of all faiths and backgrounds. The festival offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate Jewish culture and identity through music, food, art, and family activities.
The festival will feature live klezmer music from the Festival Klezmer Ensemble, showcasing musicians from across the Northeast including Christina Crowder, Josh Sussman, Laura Melnicoff, and Zisl Slepovich. The world-class performance will bring to life Jewish sounds and stories, with musical explanations woven throughout the concert.
Attendees can expect a high-end kosher culinary experience featuring the 518 Kosher Food Truck, serving delicious meals including half-chicken dinners, brisket tacos, hotdogs, and other fresh options. The festival will also host a curated kosher wine tasting, offering guests the opportunity to sample luxurious kosher wines and discover the rich flavors of Jewish winemaking traditions from around the world. The Kona Ice truck will offer frozen treats like shaved ice with customizable flavors.
The festival promises to be especially exciting for families, with a dedicated Kids Fun Zone offering multiple moon bounces and an inflatable slide. Additional attractions include a live caricature artist creating personalized portraits on the spot, and an immersive presentation on "The Art of Jewish Scribing" — a fascinating hands-on workshop into the ancient art led by skilled scribe Rabbi Leibel Kremer.
"This historic festival provides a meaningful opportunity for connection and celebration. We're excited to share vibrant Jewish music, culture and cuisine with our entire region," said Rabbi Mendel Kremer, event organizer and director of Chabad of Columbia County.
Sponsor: Chabad of Columbia County